Maccaferri and Novamont at Ecomondo 2026: Innovating Materials for Soil Protection

Combining engineering expertise and material science to develop a new generation of biodegradable erosion control solutions

On 5 November, at Ecomondo 2026, Maccaferri joined Novamont at the ENI stand to discuss the future of soil protection and the role of innovative materials in sustainable engineering.

The presentation, “Engineering and Innovative Materials for Soil Protection – Sustainability, Research and Collaboration for Future Solutions”, featured Moreno Scotto, Head of the Geosynthetics Business Unit at Maccaferri, and Alberto Castellanza from Novamont.

The discussion highlighted how growing environmental awareness, particularly regarding microplastics, and evolving European regulations are creating new opportunities for innovation in civil and environmental engineering.

Developing the Next Generation of Erosion Control Solutions

Building on its extensive experience in geosynthetic engineering and established solutions such as MacMat and MacMat R, Maccaferri is exploring new approaches to erosion control that combine technical performance with environmental responsibility.

At the heart of its collaboration with Novamont is a research project focused on developing biodegradable geomats using Mater-Bi-based materials.

By combining Maccaferri's engineering expertise with Novamont's knowledge of innovative biopolymers, the project aims to explore new materials capable of supporting effective erosion control while addressing emerging environmental challenges.

The development programme includes manufacturing trials, UV resistance testing and field monitoring to assess material performance, durability and behaviour over time.

Turning Research into Practical Solutions

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to translating scientific research into reliable, practical engineering applications.

As environmental requirements continue to evolve, Maccaferri remains focused on developing solutions that combine technical reliability, material innovation and sustainability.

Its participation at Ecomondo reinforces the importance of industrial collaboration in shaping a more resilient and environmentally responsible future for infrastructure and soil protection.